Two managers linked with Newcastle revealed

Rafael Benitez’s current contract as Newcastle United manager is due to expire next summer and the Spaniard has made a good impression since joining the club in 2016.

He led the club to instant promotion during the 2016-17 season after they were relegated from the top-flight and he tactician won plenty of praise for the way in which he helped to keep the club in the top-flight last season; particularly impressive given his lack of transfer funds.

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Once again this season, Benitez faces a difficult task to keep the Magpies in the Premier League. He has had to work with a very limited transfer budget and it is easy to see the 58-year-old not opting to sign another contract. The board of the Toon Army have repeatedly made him false promises, not backing him sufficiently in the transfer market. Could a move elsewhere be on the cards?

Hot property in Europe

He will almost definitely also attract offers from respectable team’s in Europe’s top five Leagues considering his reputation and past achievements. Even if Benitez wants to take a step back and work in a less demanding but financially rewarding environment, he will almost certainly attract offers from Major League Soccer and the Far East if he makes himself available.

Now, the Times has claimed that former Huddersfield Town boss David Wagner and current Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers are on the Magpies shortlist to replace Benitez should he not renew his deal with the club.

The 47-year-old Wagner is currently a free-agent after the Terriers sacked him this season as a result of their struggles. However, he performed an impressive job in keeping the club in the Premier League last season. It would be no surprise to see him linked with a number of top jobs in the summer.

Rodgers in the frame

Rodgers meanwhile has had a successful spell with Celtic over the past few years and has experience in the Premier League, having enjoyed successful spells at Swansea City and Liverpool.

The 46-year-old has unfinished business in England. The Scottish League is not considered elite and he may need to return to England at some point if he is to prove to be a top manager. What better place to do it than Newcastle?

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